Colleen Wait's Blog: Hello readers!, page 6
July 21, 2014
Recipe for a fear-less day
I have a very full to-do list today I'm not doing it. Why? Because there is this 'THING' looming over me that makes me very afraid. Paniky even. I know about fear. I know about worry. I know what the Bible says about both. Did you know, "Be strong and courageous" is in the Bible 365 times? That's one for every day. I need it today and tomorrow, and all week in fact. Here's another: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7.
That's all well and good, but right now fear is paralyzing me. I want to crawl under a rock and cry. You see, Thursday I'm getting on an airplane - by myself- and flying to Phoenix, AZ for a conference. Thousands of happy, rah rah women packed in a giant room. I won't be alone but I sure will feel alone. I'm bringing my running shoes in case I need to bolt.
It wouldn't be so bad if my husband were coming. It wouldn't be so bad if I was not concerned about my son's test results. It wouldn't be so bad if my daughter wasn't moving out next month. It wouldn't be so bad if I didn't have a birthday coming up. One of those, "wow you're old" ones.
You may say, "So don't go."
I have to.
"Why?", you ask.
Because it terrifies me, that's why.
If I sat here at my desk all day and didn't do the things that terrified me I would whither and die. I wouldn't be useful to God, my husband, or my family. I would never have traveled to S. Korea and climbed a mountain and a volcano. I would never have run a marathon or three. I would never have left a toxic marriage and found a man I love so much it hurts to be away from him for four days in Phoenix. I could go on, but right now, I'm trying to talk myself out of the fear the looms ahead.
So, I bake. I bake because it gives me something to do that doesn't take too much brain power. I bake because I need to take food with me when I travel because of my allergy. I bake because I can do it while listening to music at full blast. That relaxes me. (Oh, don't worry, I already did my run today. That was relaxing, too, even though it was 90 degrees and 100% humidity).
Here is what I baked today:
Whole wheat and oat bread. The recipe is on another post.
Zucchini and blueberry muffins:
3 eggs
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup all natural applesauce
1 cup unprocessed, local honey
1 large zucchini, grated. (i put mine in the food processor)
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup blueberries, frozen(thawed) or fresh
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup Quaker oats, old fashioned, ground fine
3 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup chopped raw almonds
1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut
Preheat oven to 350F. Grease mini loaf pans or large muffin tins. Mix in order of recipe, wet then dry. Let sit for a few minutes. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Don't over bake or they will dry out. Take out of tins quickly. The blueberries will stick if you wait too long.
Refrigerate when cool. These can be frozen, wrapped individually.
Zuchhini/blueberry muffins
Dairy-free and delicious
I ate this one. It was really good.
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Matthew 6:25-27
Deuteronomy 31:5 The Lord will deliver them to you, and you must do to them all that I have commanded you. 6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
7 Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance.
God tells his people over and over again in the New Testament - be strong and courageous. If they can. I can, too.
After posting this, a friend posted Philippians 4:6 on Facebook. God knows what I needed to hear.
That's all well and good, but right now fear is paralyzing me. I want to crawl under a rock and cry. You see, Thursday I'm getting on an airplane - by myself- and flying to Phoenix, AZ for a conference. Thousands of happy, rah rah women packed in a giant room. I won't be alone but I sure will feel alone. I'm bringing my running shoes in case I need to bolt.
It wouldn't be so bad if my husband were coming. It wouldn't be so bad if I was not concerned about my son's test results. It wouldn't be so bad if my daughter wasn't moving out next month. It wouldn't be so bad if I didn't have a birthday coming up. One of those, "wow you're old" ones.
You may say, "So don't go."
I have to.
"Why?", you ask.
Because it terrifies me, that's why.
If I sat here at my desk all day and didn't do the things that terrified me I would whither and die. I wouldn't be useful to God, my husband, or my family. I would never have traveled to S. Korea and climbed a mountain and a volcano. I would never have run a marathon or three. I would never have left a toxic marriage and found a man I love so much it hurts to be away from him for four days in Phoenix. I could go on, but right now, I'm trying to talk myself out of the fear the looms ahead.
So, I bake. I bake because it gives me something to do that doesn't take too much brain power. I bake because I need to take food with me when I travel because of my allergy. I bake because I can do it while listening to music at full blast. That relaxes me. (Oh, don't worry, I already did my run today. That was relaxing, too, even though it was 90 degrees and 100% humidity).
Here is what I baked today:
Whole wheat and oat bread. The recipe is on another post.
Zucchini and blueberry muffins:
3 eggs
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup all natural applesauce
1 cup unprocessed, local honey
1 large zucchini, grated. (i put mine in the food processor)
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup blueberries, frozen(thawed) or fresh
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup Quaker oats, old fashioned, ground fine
3 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup chopped raw almonds
1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut
Preheat oven to 350F. Grease mini loaf pans or large muffin tins. Mix in order of recipe, wet then dry. Let sit for a few minutes. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Don't over bake or they will dry out. Take out of tins quickly. The blueberries will stick if you wait too long.
Refrigerate when cool. These can be frozen, wrapped individually.
Zuchhini/blueberry muffins
Dairy-free and delicious
I ate this one. It was really good.“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Matthew 6:25-27
Deuteronomy 31:5 The Lord will deliver them to you, and you must do to them all that I have commanded you. 6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
7 Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance.
God tells his people over and over again in the New Testament - be strong and courageous. If they can. I can, too.
After posting this, a friend posted Philippians 4:6 on Facebook. God knows what I needed to hear.
July 16, 2014
Apple/Banana muffins
I've been baking almost all day today. I started with my Energy Bites (see previous post) and this one is a variation of my banana bread. If it's too sweet, cut the honey by a tablespoon. It came out very moist and yummy!
Recipe:
2 eggs
3/4 cups unprocessed, local honey
1 apple, chopped fine
2 bananas, mashed (they don't have to be super soft/overripe)
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cups whole wheat flour
1-1/4 cup Quaker old fashioned oats (put 1/2 to 3/4 in a food processor and coarse grind)
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon (or more to taste)
1 cup chopped, raw almonds
Stir in wet ingredients, then oats, then the rest of dry. I put mine in mini loaf pans, made 12. Bake at 325 for 25 minutes-30 minutes. Slightly underdone is fine, they are very moist.
Apple/Banana muffin.
Top with all-natural peanut butter for a perfect breakfast.
Recipe:
2 eggs
3/4 cups unprocessed, local honey
1 apple, chopped fine
2 bananas, mashed (they don't have to be super soft/overripe)
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cups whole wheat flour
1-1/4 cup Quaker old fashioned oats (put 1/2 to 3/4 in a food processor and coarse grind)
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon (or more to taste)
1 cup chopped, raw almonds
Stir in wet ingredients, then oats, then the rest of dry. I put mine in mini loaf pans, made 12. Bake at 325 for 25 minutes-30 minutes. Slightly underdone is fine, they are very moist.
Apple/Banana muffin.
Top with all-natural peanut butter for a perfect breakfast.HONEY ENERGY BITES
I concocted this recipe a few weeks ago because energy gels were making me gag and cough. Two or more made me nauseous. I am training for a marathon, again, so I needed on the go nutrition. I started with one per run with a gel then gradually increased the homemade energy and eliminated the gels. My last run, I ate two bites (twice the size of the ones pictured) and no gels! I had plenty of energy and no upset stomach. Woo Hoo!
Here is the recipe:
1 cup local, unprocessed honey
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
3 cups Quaker, old fashioned oats. Puree 1 cup
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup chopped, dairy-free dark chocolate chips. (I use Enjoy Life brand)
Add ingredients in order listed, stirring well after each.
Spoon a teaspoon-sized portion onto parchment sprayed with cooking Spray
Bake honey energy bites 5 minutes at 350 degrees F.
Cool well then freeze in air-tight container.
As an energy bar during exercise over one hour, eat two every 45-60 minutes. Start with one to make sure it does not upset your stomach - especially if you are not used to eating real food during a work out.
There are only approximately 34 calories per bite. To increase the calories, add finely chopped raw almonds (buy in bulk and puree in food chopper yourself), dried fruit, or add more chocolate chips.
Here is the recipe:
1 cup local, unprocessed honey
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
3 cups Quaker, old fashioned oats. Puree 1 cup
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup chopped, dairy-free dark chocolate chips. (I use Enjoy Life brand)
Add ingredients in order listed, stirring well after each.
Spoon a teaspoon-sized portion onto parchment sprayed with cooking Spray
Bake honey energy bites 5 minutes at 350 degrees F.
Cool well then freeze in air-tight container.As an energy bar during exercise over one hour, eat two every 45-60 minutes. Start with one to make sure it does not upset your stomach - especially if you are not used to eating real food during a work out.
There are only approximately 34 calories per bite. To increase the calories, add finely chopped raw almonds (buy in bulk and puree in food chopper yourself), dried fruit, or add more chocolate chips.
June 27, 2014
My Korean Adventure - Round 2, Jeju
(pictures at the end)
I have just wrapped up my second trip to South Korea. I feel very blessed to have been able to accompany my husband on his business trips. The Korean people are so kind and generous to have invited not only me, but our children as well. Only the youngest, Rachel who is 14, was able to go with us.
Since this was my second trip, I was a little more prepared for the long travel time. I packed mints and chapstick to help with the dry airplane air. That didn't help the boredom, however. I don't usually sit for more than a few minutes at a time before getting up and running (around). The flights to Detroit, Detroit to Seoul Inchon were thankfully uneventful and we arrived at our hotel tired yet ready for adventure.
At 5 am the next morning, Mark, Rachel, and I hit the running trail two blocks from the hotel. It was the same trail we had run before so was a very familiar and energizing run (for me at least).
After breakfast, Rachel and I set out to explore, this time with me as tour guide. We took the subway to Gangnam, walked around the neighborhood a bit until I spotted a sign for COEX. I remembered my son telling me it was a mall. We followed the sign, followed the sign, then finally asked someone how far. About an hour later, I spotted a little sign on a door that read COEX. We went in and was underwhelmed. It was a normal-looking underground shopping mall with an aquarium. We didn't go to the aquarium because it was crowded with school children. Following a short rest, we discovered a subway station - in the mall - and hopped a train back to the hotel.
When Mark returned that evening after work he asked if we'd like to go to Jeju Island in the morning. Heck Yeah!! I was thrilled. I had hoped to be able to go to this volcanic island we had been told about on the last trip.
Early the following morning we hopped a plane from Gimp airport to Jeju. That was an experience in itself. Lots of young couples and little children running around. Not a "non-Asian" in sight. The flight was quick, only 50 minutes. We arrived to clear blue skies and warm temps a little apprehensive about what to expect. We were blessed to have been given a driver for the duration of our trip who we were told spoke English. We hoped that was true.
The driver thankfully met us at the gate and immediately asked us, in pretty fair English, what our plans were. We didn't really have any. He drove us along the western border of the island along the shoreline. It was beautiful. Very much not what I had expected - not that I had great expectations. Maybe I was expecting the Hawaii I had seen on TV. The beaches were black volcanic rock with a little sand, not at all "touristy".
After about an hour of driving he stopped in the middle of the road and turned off his car engine. I thought he had car trouble until he smiled and pointed at the road. We were moving backward - uphill! The road was called Mysterious Road because of the optical illusion. Google it, there are videos that are pretty cool.
Next stop was a place called Tropical Hallimpark, a nice walking tour garden. He then took us to a Korean BBQ for dinner. This was awkward because no one in the place spoke any English and even though the menu had English and we were able to point to order, the lady couldn't understand what we wanted and the driver, oh his name was Mr. Moon, had a difficult time translating. We eventually ordered beef and rice and with it came the usual Korean fare which was pretty much untouched.
Finally, late in the day near sunset we arrived at the Y Hotel. I was completely surprised at the modern architecture of the building set in the middle of absolutely nowhere. It is located on the southern border near Seogwipo. We had a suite with two bathrooms, a kitchen, and a balcony overlooking the ocean. Can you say - I'm never going home?
Day two, I asked my husband where he wanted to go. His answer, to my surprise was Hallasan. My husband, the clean room engineer wanted to go hike a volcano. Can you say - I'm in love?! The driver picks us up on time and starts driving north. We pass through a little area full of buses and says casually, "I pick you up here." We don't comment because we weren't really sure what he said or meant and because he kept on driving for half an hour. We get to the beginning of the Seongpanak Trail, Mr. Moon gives us instructions and a map and says, "see you at 4." That's in 7 hours. We knew it was a long hike. I looked at my husband and he's all smiles (for now). And we're off!! We had hiked a mountain last trip so we sort of knew what to expect. This trail was different. For one, it was slippery. It had rained the day before. Two, the trail was rockier, smaller rocks, not quite as steep - at first. We stopped and took pictures at every trail maker all the way up to 1900 feet!. Four hours up and four hours down! About 3/4 of the way up we started crossing paths with young adults from Hyundai Motor Co all dressed alike. There must have been a thousand of them! That made the trek as little less enjoyable because they were running up and down, and a few fell and got injured. The peak was crowded with these guys, and a few females. Interestingly - we were the only Americans. We did see I think two "non-Asians" but I believe they were Eastern Europeans. Didn't get a chance to talk to them.
By the end of our hike, my husband was a mean mountain lion and I mean that in the most respectful and admirable way! He was so much out of his comfort zone as he hopped from rock to rock, boulder to boulder, up and down the mountain encouraging me and Rachel on. Rachel by the way was a real trooper!
Mr. Moon was at the finish line (that what it felt like to me) waiting as promised to take us to our hotel where we collapsed from exhaustion.
Tired, but not wanting to waste a moment of our precious gift, we traveled to Choenjiyeon to see a 'famous' waterfall the next morning. It was a cloudy day with a chance of rain but we wanted to see as much outdoor sites as possible. There were a ton of museums to choose from, but nature is so much better!! The waterfall was just that - a waterfall. The most interesting thing to watch was the tourists. A huge percentage of tourists in Jeju are Chinese and one of my favorite pastimes is people watching so we sat for half an hour just watching them take pictures of each other.
People watching over, we were hungry - but not for Korean BBQ. We found a Wester-style restaurant but alas it was closed. Mr. Moon took us to an alternative just down the street - Chinese buffet! Mark wasn't too sure until he saw the pizza and spaghetti! Really? That was so funny.
Next stop, Seongsanilchulbong. "Seongsanilchulbong sunrise peak is a classic tuff cone that was formed around five thousand years ago by a hydrovolcanic eruption in a shallow water seabed." It is located on the northeast corner of the island. When I looked it up, it appeared to be a short walk, not a hike, to the rim. I was wrong. Mr. Moon showed us that we could do the half course, which only took 30 minutes since we were tired from the day before. When we got to the base, I really wanted to go up. My husband said go, he and Rachel would walk around the bottom. So, I went. Rather, I jogged up the bazillion steps to the top. I was sweaty and exhausted. My thighs were burning but it was worth it. I only wished the sun were out and we could have done this at dawn. Nevertheless, the view of the clouds rolling in was breathtaking. I took a dozen or so pictures then jogged down another bazillion steps, calves aching all the way. I think we all fell asleep in the car ride back to the hotel.
Last day in Jeju we only had a half day. Our flight was late afternoon. Geomunoreum Lava Tube was the only item on the agenda. It was a dreary day and the information pamphlet said it was indoors so I figured that would be a good place to visit. Well... it was indoors. If you've ever been in a cave, and I have so I should have known, you will know that caves are cold and wet, especially when it's raining outside. I almost turned around and aborted but my awesome husband said something like, oh it's only two miles, you can do two miles. (one way mind you). I felt totally underdressed/improperly dressed. I almost changed and put my sneakers on but instead was wearing my Bob's. I felt a little better when I saw other tourists wearing dresses and heels. I think it's a culture thing. I can usually spot the tourist by the shoes. Europeans wear Crocs, Birkenstocks, or hiking sandals. Americans wear flip flops or running shoes.
*** For everyone out there reading this - I am not judging or prejudging or prejudiced against anyone!! I am merely having a running commentary on the people I observe, the culture I experience, and how out of place I felt. I completely loved my time and the people I have met here. Quite honestly, the US is such a melting pot, everyone looks American.
I digress. After the hike, it was back in Mr. Moon's car. He took us to another buffet - VIPs. It was sort of a fusion steak/salad bar buffet thing. Not too bad. Once at the airport, it was people-watching time. I could do a whole blog on people at the airport. Maybe I will later.
Our last day in Seoul we went to Lotte World. I could do a blog on that, too. Quite a different experience. It's sort of a Korean version of Disney World.
Enough said. How about some photos?
I have just wrapped up my second trip to South Korea. I feel very blessed to have been able to accompany my husband on his business trips. The Korean people are so kind and generous to have invited not only me, but our children as well. Only the youngest, Rachel who is 14, was able to go with us.
Since this was my second trip, I was a little more prepared for the long travel time. I packed mints and chapstick to help with the dry airplane air. That didn't help the boredom, however. I don't usually sit for more than a few minutes at a time before getting up and running (around). The flights to Detroit, Detroit to Seoul Inchon were thankfully uneventful and we arrived at our hotel tired yet ready for adventure.
At 5 am the next morning, Mark, Rachel, and I hit the running trail two blocks from the hotel. It was the same trail we had run before so was a very familiar and energizing run (for me at least).
After breakfast, Rachel and I set out to explore, this time with me as tour guide. We took the subway to Gangnam, walked around the neighborhood a bit until I spotted a sign for COEX. I remembered my son telling me it was a mall. We followed the sign, followed the sign, then finally asked someone how far. About an hour later, I spotted a little sign on a door that read COEX. We went in and was underwhelmed. It was a normal-looking underground shopping mall with an aquarium. We didn't go to the aquarium because it was crowded with school children. Following a short rest, we discovered a subway station - in the mall - and hopped a train back to the hotel.
When Mark returned that evening after work he asked if we'd like to go to Jeju Island in the morning. Heck Yeah!! I was thrilled. I had hoped to be able to go to this volcanic island we had been told about on the last trip.
Early the following morning we hopped a plane from Gimp airport to Jeju. That was an experience in itself. Lots of young couples and little children running around. Not a "non-Asian" in sight. The flight was quick, only 50 minutes. We arrived to clear blue skies and warm temps a little apprehensive about what to expect. We were blessed to have been given a driver for the duration of our trip who we were told spoke English. We hoped that was true.
The driver thankfully met us at the gate and immediately asked us, in pretty fair English, what our plans were. We didn't really have any. He drove us along the western border of the island along the shoreline. It was beautiful. Very much not what I had expected - not that I had great expectations. Maybe I was expecting the Hawaii I had seen on TV. The beaches were black volcanic rock with a little sand, not at all "touristy".
After about an hour of driving he stopped in the middle of the road and turned off his car engine. I thought he had car trouble until he smiled and pointed at the road. We were moving backward - uphill! The road was called Mysterious Road because of the optical illusion. Google it, there are videos that are pretty cool.
Next stop was a place called Tropical Hallimpark, a nice walking tour garden. He then took us to a Korean BBQ for dinner. This was awkward because no one in the place spoke any English and even though the menu had English and we were able to point to order, the lady couldn't understand what we wanted and the driver, oh his name was Mr. Moon, had a difficult time translating. We eventually ordered beef and rice and with it came the usual Korean fare which was pretty much untouched.
Finally, late in the day near sunset we arrived at the Y Hotel. I was completely surprised at the modern architecture of the building set in the middle of absolutely nowhere. It is located on the southern border near Seogwipo. We had a suite with two bathrooms, a kitchen, and a balcony overlooking the ocean. Can you say - I'm never going home?
Day two, I asked my husband where he wanted to go. His answer, to my surprise was Hallasan. My husband, the clean room engineer wanted to go hike a volcano. Can you say - I'm in love?! The driver picks us up on time and starts driving north. We pass through a little area full of buses and says casually, "I pick you up here." We don't comment because we weren't really sure what he said or meant and because he kept on driving for half an hour. We get to the beginning of the Seongpanak Trail, Mr. Moon gives us instructions and a map and says, "see you at 4." That's in 7 hours. We knew it was a long hike. I looked at my husband and he's all smiles (for now). And we're off!! We had hiked a mountain last trip so we sort of knew what to expect. This trail was different. For one, it was slippery. It had rained the day before. Two, the trail was rockier, smaller rocks, not quite as steep - at first. We stopped and took pictures at every trail maker all the way up to 1900 feet!. Four hours up and four hours down! About 3/4 of the way up we started crossing paths with young adults from Hyundai Motor Co all dressed alike. There must have been a thousand of them! That made the trek as little less enjoyable because they were running up and down, and a few fell and got injured. The peak was crowded with these guys, and a few females. Interestingly - we were the only Americans. We did see I think two "non-Asians" but I believe they were Eastern Europeans. Didn't get a chance to talk to them.
By the end of our hike, my husband was a mean mountain lion and I mean that in the most respectful and admirable way! He was so much out of his comfort zone as he hopped from rock to rock, boulder to boulder, up and down the mountain encouraging me and Rachel on. Rachel by the way was a real trooper!
Mr. Moon was at the finish line (that what it felt like to me) waiting as promised to take us to our hotel where we collapsed from exhaustion.
Tired, but not wanting to waste a moment of our precious gift, we traveled to Choenjiyeon to see a 'famous' waterfall the next morning. It was a cloudy day with a chance of rain but we wanted to see as much outdoor sites as possible. There were a ton of museums to choose from, but nature is so much better!! The waterfall was just that - a waterfall. The most interesting thing to watch was the tourists. A huge percentage of tourists in Jeju are Chinese and one of my favorite pastimes is people watching so we sat for half an hour just watching them take pictures of each other.
People watching over, we were hungry - but not for Korean BBQ. We found a Wester-style restaurant but alas it was closed. Mr. Moon took us to an alternative just down the street - Chinese buffet! Mark wasn't too sure until he saw the pizza and spaghetti! Really? That was so funny.
Next stop, Seongsanilchulbong. "Seongsanilchulbong sunrise peak is a classic tuff cone that was formed around five thousand years ago by a hydrovolcanic eruption in a shallow water seabed." It is located on the northeast corner of the island. When I looked it up, it appeared to be a short walk, not a hike, to the rim. I was wrong. Mr. Moon showed us that we could do the half course, which only took 30 minutes since we were tired from the day before. When we got to the base, I really wanted to go up. My husband said go, he and Rachel would walk around the bottom. So, I went. Rather, I jogged up the bazillion steps to the top. I was sweaty and exhausted. My thighs were burning but it was worth it. I only wished the sun were out and we could have done this at dawn. Nevertheless, the view of the clouds rolling in was breathtaking. I took a dozen or so pictures then jogged down another bazillion steps, calves aching all the way. I think we all fell asleep in the car ride back to the hotel.
Last day in Jeju we only had a half day. Our flight was late afternoon. Geomunoreum Lava Tube was the only item on the agenda. It was a dreary day and the information pamphlet said it was indoors so I figured that would be a good place to visit. Well... it was indoors. If you've ever been in a cave, and I have so I should have known, you will know that caves are cold and wet, especially when it's raining outside. I almost turned around and aborted but my awesome husband said something like, oh it's only two miles, you can do two miles. (one way mind you). I felt totally underdressed/improperly dressed. I almost changed and put my sneakers on but instead was wearing my Bob's. I felt a little better when I saw other tourists wearing dresses and heels. I think it's a culture thing. I can usually spot the tourist by the shoes. Europeans wear Crocs, Birkenstocks, or hiking sandals. Americans wear flip flops or running shoes.
*** For everyone out there reading this - I am not judging or prejudging or prejudiced against anyone!! I am merely having a running commentary on the people I observe, the culture I experience, and how out of place I felt. I completely loved my time and the people I have met here. Quite honestly, the US is such a melting pot, everyone looks American.
I digress. After the hike, it was back in Mr. Moon's car. He took us to another buffet - VIPs. It was sort of a fusion steak/salad bar buffet thing. Not too bad. Once at the airport, it was people-watching time. I could do a whole blog on people at the airport. Maybe I will later.
Our last day in Seoul we went to Lotte World. I could do a blog on that, too. Quite a different experience. It's sort of a Korean version of Disney World.
Enough said. How about some photos?
Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies...with a twist
I have two recipes for pumpkin cookies/bars so obviously, I combined them. Below is the final combination:
1/2 cup honey - the more local and more fresh the better
1/2 cup Stevia in the raw
1 can of Pumpkin puree
1/4 cup coconut oil (or 1/4 cup oil, 1/4 cup natural applesauce)
1 cup oats, ground fine (I use Quaker, old fashioned)
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 c dairy-free chocolate chips, chopped
Mix wet ingredients, then add the chocolate. Stir. Add dry ingredients.
Spoon onto parchment paper. Flatten with back of spoon. Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes. Cool.
Now, for the twist.
In a double boiler, melt smooth peanut butter. I use Smucker's all natural because it has two ingredients - peanuts and salt. Also, melt dairy-free chocolate either dark or semi-sweet.
Stab a cooled cookie with a fork, right in the middle, all the way through. Smooth on a thin (or thick if you like) layer of PB. Dip into the chocolate. If you're afraid of the cookie falling off your fork, spoon it on. Cover completely. Set on plastic wrap then place in the freezer. Once the chocolate has hardened, peel off the plastic wrap. Keep in the fridge or freezer. YUM!
Chocolate-covered Pumpkin chip cookies
I will add photos of the process at a later date. Getting over jet lag today.
1/2 cup honey - the more local and more fresh the better
1/2 cup Stevia in the raw
1 can of Pumpkin puree
1/4 cup coconut oil (or 1/4 cup oil, 1/4 cup natural applesauce)
1 cup oats, ground fine (I use Quaker, old fashioned)
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 c dairy-free chocolate chips, chopped
Mix wet ingredients, then add the chocolate. Stir. Add dry ingredients.
Spoon onto parchment paper. Flatten with back of spoon. Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes. Cool.
Now, for the twist.
In a double boiler, melt smooth peanut butter. I use Smucker's all natural because it has two ingredients - peanuts and salt. Also, melt dairy-free chocolate either dark or semi-sweet.
Stab a cooled cookie with a fork, right in the middle, all the way through. Smooth on a thin (or thick if you like) layer of PB. Dip into the chocolate. If you're afraid of the cookie falling off your fork, spoon it on. Cover completely. Set on plastic wrap then place in the freezer. Once the chocolate has hardened, peel off the plastic wrap. Keep in the fridge or freezer. YUM!
Chocolate-covered Pumpkin chip cookiesI will add photos of the process at a later date. Getting over jet lag today.
May 17, 2014
Alzheimer's Association Fundraiser
A few days ago, I was doing some online networking, blogging, creating business materials, etc. and got an invitation to join in with a friend for Walk to End Alzheimer's. I've been asked before, but either did not have the time or it just didn't seem important. Well, shame on me! It is important and I must confess, I'm ashamed of myself for neglecting this issue because my great Aunt who recently passed away had Alzheimer's disease.
Since "retiring" from my day job I vowed to myself to act upon those things that are important, those things I either have neglected to make important or honestly did not have the time for.
In the past, I have done other fundraisers through my Origami Owl business. Now, I turn my attention to Alzheimer's disease. You see, my great aunt had Alzheimer's. At the same time, she had lung cancer. The family debated whether or not to treat her cancer because of the Alzheimer's. She did not understand what was going on around her. Did not know why she was being taken to doctors, did not know why people were poking needles in her arms or why she was throwing up.
I guess it was a blessing that she went fairly quickly. In fact, she passed from this earth with my mother by her side. I believe God spared her from a long painful existence that many Alzheimer's patients and their families endure. From the time the cancer was diagnosed to her last breath on earth, only approximately two years went by. It doesn't really matter which disease ended her life, the fact is, disease took this wonderful woman from us. Here is your chance to find a cure for one of them.
PLEASE SHARE THIS POSTER.
ALZHEIMER'S FUNDRAISER SHOP FORWARD LINK.
Since "retiring" from my day job I vowed to myself to act upon those things that are important, those things I either have neglected to make important or honestly did not have the time for.
In the past, I have done other fundraisers through my Origami Owl business. Now, I turn my attention to Alzheimer's disease. You see, my great aunt had Alzheimer's. At the same time, she had lung cancer. The family debated whether or not to treat her cancer because of the Alzheimer's. She did not understand what was going on around her. Did not know why she was being taken to doctors, did not know why people were poking needles in her arms or why she was throwing up.
I guess it was a blessing that she went fairly quickly. In fact, she passed from this earth with my mother by her side. I believe God spared her from a long painful existence that many Alzheimer's patients and their families endure. From the time the cancer was diagnosed to her last breath on earth, only approximately two years went by. It doesn't really matter which disease ended her life, the fact is, disease took this wonderful woman from us. Here is your chance to find a cure for one of them.
PLEASE SHARE THIS POSTER.
ALZHEIMER'S FUNDRAISER SHOP FORWARD LINK.
May 2, 2014
My Chemistry experiment
Today is a rainy, dreary, don't want to get out of bed type of day. It was supposed to be long run day. Didn't happen. Got on the treadmill and was bored in less than 30 minutes. I managed to pull out 7 miles before I gave up.
A few days ago, I discovered the web site for my favorite dairy-free chocolate, Enjoy Life, and as any responsible runner with a dairy allergy would do, I ordered a case.
After my run this morning, I decided to do some experimentation. First, I made chocolate milk frappe type drink. (No photo). 2 ripe bananas1/2 cup coconut milk1 cup almond milk (plain)1/2 cup dark chocolate chip morsels (pictured above)2 Tbs Smuckers all natural peanut butter6 large frozen strawberries
It was not too bad, not cold enough, so I put it in the freezer. May make good ice cream substitute. Will find out after it's frozen.
Next, I made my black bean brownies with the dark chocolate chips. YUM!
The brownies called for 2 TBS of canned pumpkin. I had a can minus 2 TBS left, so what to do? I searched my recipes and decided to do a mash up of my Pumpkin Bars and Pumpkin Chocolate chip cookie.
Recipe:1/2 cup Agave1/2 cup Stevia in the raw1 can (minus what was used for the brownies) pumpkin puree1/4 cup coconut oil, melted1/4 cup all natural apple sauce1 cup oats (finely ground)1 cup whole wheat flour1 tsp baking soda1 tsp baking powder1/2 tsp salt1 egg3/4 cup +/- dark chocolate chip morsels chopped up (I put them in the little Ninja for a few seconds)
Mix in order, stirring well. Spoon onto parchment paper, flatten a bit with a spoon. 375 for 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
They turned out soft and very sweet and chocolatey. I think I love them!! Will have to get some taste testers when the family gets home. I will also be taking some of my experiments to church tomorrow and see if they get eaten or hit the trash can.
Normally, I bake for my own enjoyment. I can't eat "grocery store" deserts because of my allergy to dairy and my family isn't too keen on my experiments. Perhaps my readers could give me some feedback. Like? Don't like? I have friends who love the black bean brownies, so maybe these new cookies will be a hit as well.
Pumpkin chocolate cookies
Pumpkin chocolate chip cookie right out of the oven.Don't ask me what the calorie count is in these recipes. I'm not into that sort of thing. I run 35 plus miles a week and need the calories. The ingredients are natural and healthy, so enjoy in moderation if you are dieting. Does the plate of cookies look like a little person? Kinda did that on purpose.
A few days ago, I discovered the web site for my favorite dairy-free chocolate, Enjoy Life, and as any responsible runner with a dairy allergy would do, I ordered a case.
After my run this morning, I decided to do some experimentation. First, I made chocolate milk frappe type drink. (No photo). 2 ripe bananas1/2 cup coconut milk1 cup almond milk (plain)1/2 cup dark chocolate chip morsels (pictured above)2 Tbs Smuckers all natural peanut butter6 large frozen strawberries
It was not too bad, not cold enough, so I put it in the freezer. May make good ice cream substitute. Will find out after it's frozen.
Next, I made my black bean brownies with the dark chocolate chips. YUM!
The brownies called for 2 TBS of canned pumpkin. I had a can minus 2 TBS left, so what to do? I searched my recipes and decided to do a mash up of my Pumpkin Bars and Pumpkin Chocolate chip cookie.
Recipe:1/2 cup Agave1/2 cup Stevia in the raw1 can (minus what was used for the brownies) pumpkin puree1/4 cup coconut oil, melted1/4 cup all natural apple sauce1 cup oats (finely ground)1 cup whole wheat flour1 tsp baking soda1 tsp baking powder1/2 tsp salt1 egg3/4 cup +/- dark chocolate chip morsels chopped up (I put them in the little Ninja for a few seconds)
Mix in order, stirring well. Spoon onto parchment paper, flatten a bit with a spoon. 375 for 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
They turned out soft and very sweet and chocolatey. I think I love them!! Will have to get some taste testers when the family gets home. I will also be taking some of my experiments to church tomorrow and see if they get eaten or hit the trash can.
Normally, I bake for my own enjoyment. I can't eat "grocery store" deserts because of my allergy to dairy and my family isn't too keen on my experiments. Perhaps my readers could give me some feedback. Like? Don't like? I have friends who love the black bean brownies, so maybe these new cookies will be a hit as well.
Pumpkin chocolate cookies
Pumpkin chocolate chip cookie right out of the oven.Don't ask me what the calorie count is in these recipes. I'm not into that sort of thing. I run 35 plus miles a week and need the calories. The ingredients are natural and healthy, so enjoy in moderation if you are dieting. Does the plate of cookies look like a little person? Kinda did that on purpose.
April 23, 2014
April 16, 2014
Control - do you have it?
Control. What is it and who has it?
Merriam-Webster dictionary defines control as:
to direct the behavior of a person. To cause a person to do what you want.
to have power over (something/someone)
to direct the actions or function of (something). To cause (something) to act or function in a certain way.
Control equal power. Does it really?
When I was a young girl I often felt helpless unless I was in charge. Put me in a group with a leader and I floundered. Make me the leader and I flourished, felt empowered, in control.
As an adult in a bad marriage, I learned to take control. I became the boss. Controlled the discipline of my children, controlled the finances, controlled every aspect of my life. Why? At the time, I felt it was necessary. Somebody had to take charge, after all.
Control meant security. Control meant no surprises. (that didn't work at all) Control meant I was in charge of my life, my destiny. If I told everyone what to do, how to do it, when to do it then all was right with the world when they obeyed.
But, what if they didn't? I was out of control and my world fell apart.
Control is also about lack of trust. I didn't trust those around me, therefore, I had to control my environment.
I had to relinquish control in order to have true peace, true freedom, true happiness and joy.
How?
* I had to put my faith, my trust, my belief into action. God. God, ultimately is the only one who is ever completely in control. I had to believe that he had my best interest at heart. Things might not go my way - ever - but His plan will work because it is His plan - not mine.
* I had to read my Bible. Over and over and over again until it was written on my heart and I understood and believed.
Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Psalm 9:10 And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Matthew 6:34 became my daily mantra. Controlling people are anxious people. We worry about everything all the time.
When I finally was able to put my trust fully in God, my creator, the one who died on the cross for me, then I was free. Free to trust. Free to love. Free to let my hair down and relax and know that the world isn't going to fall apart if things did not go my way every second of the day.
Do you know someone like this?
Control takes on different visuals. The woman who's life looks immaculately perfect. She always looks perfect. Her children are dressed like a catalogue. Her husband is dressed perfectly. Look in her eyes. What do you see?
The man who stands up tall, speaks with authority, has an air of confidence when everyone has eyes on him. Look at him when he thinks no one is looking. What do you see?
The person in church, at work, in the gym who you see occasionally. Ask them how they are and their answer is always, 'Fine'. Look them in the eye and ask, "Really?" What do you see.
The person you try to reach out to but never answers your e-mail, text, phone call but in person speaks kindly but never mentions the contact attempts. You know they are hurting but do not ever speak of it. When they do speak, it is methodical, planned out, often painful to watch. Look in their eyes. What do you see?
The couple you frequently socialize with. When ordering, who glances at whom when placing orders? Who speaks harshly to the children at the table? Who 'appears' to be in charge of the household? Who dictates where the couple goes? Who they socialize with? The budget for their outings? Look in their eyes. What do you see?
The person with weight issues. A person's weight is often a matter of control. When I was in deep distress I lost a ton of weight. I've known many anorexics. Anorexia is a control issue. Eating disorders - to eat or not to eat - is a control issue. What a person does with his or her own body which is unhealthy is a form of control. I can control what I eat. I can control what I throw up. I can control how much I exercise. I can control pain with cutting, piercing, tattoos.
The person who's house seems immaculate. Even the person who's house is a total shambles. Is it clean because they take pride in their home, or is it something else? Is everything exactly in its place all the time? (I'll bet there is a room that show's what their life is really like.) Is the messy house a collection of junk? Can they never throw anything away?
What do you do in your own life or in the lives of people who meet these qualities?
1) Pray.
2) Read and study your Bible.
3) Talk to them.
4) Talk to someone.
5) Talk to God.
6) SURRENDER.
You are not in control. God is. The only thing you can control is your thought and what comes out of your mouth, and even then, if your heart is not right with God, Satan can take over that, too.
Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Finally. John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Once I gave it all to God, I mean really gave it all - no taking it back when it's convenient or he's not doing it fast enough - my soul found rest. Life isn't perfect, things don't go my way, but I know, I really KNOW that God loves me, has a plan for me, and this world is not my home. Heaven is where I belong, where I will be for eternity. Because I know that now, I can say no, no I don't have it.
God is in Control - Twila Paris
Proverbs 16: 9 A man’s heart plans his way,
But the Lord directs his steps.
A few good books about learning to let go (fiction) available on Amazon
Merriam-Webster dictionary defines control as:
to direct the behavior of a person. To cause a person to do what you want.
to have power over (something/someone)
to direct the actions or function of (something). To cause (something) to act or function in a certain way.
Control equal power. Does it really?
When I was a young girl I often felt helpless unless I was in charge. Put me in a group with a leader and I floundered. Make me the leader and I flourished, felt empowered, in control.
As an adult in a bad marriage, I learned to take control. I became the boss. Controlled the discipline of my children, controlled the finances, controlled every aspect of my life. Why? At the time, I felt it was necessary. Somebody had to take charge, after all.
Control meant security. Control meant no surprises. (that didn't work at all) Control meant I was in charge of my life, my destiny. If I told everyone what to do, how to do it, when to do it then all was right with the world when they obeyed.
But, what if they didn't? I was out of control and my world fell apart.
Control is also about lack of trust. I didn't trust those around me, therefore, I had to control my environment.
I had to relinquish control in order to have true peace, true freedom, true happiness and joy.
How?
* I had to put my faith, my trust, my belief into action. God. God, ultimately is the only one who is ever completely in control. I had to believe that he had my best interest at heart. Things might not go my way - ever - but His plan will work because it is His plan - not mine.
* I had to read my Bible. Over and over and over again until it was written on my heart and I understood and believed.
Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Psalm 9:10 And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Matthew 6:34 became my daily mantra. Controlling people are anxious people. We worry about everything all the time.
When I finally was able to put my trust fully in God, my creator, the one who died on the cross for me, then I was free. Free to trust. Free to love. Free to let my hair down and relax and know that the world isn't going to fall apart if things did not go my way every second of the day.
Do you know someone like this?
Control takes on different visuals. The woman who's life looks immaculately perfect. She always looks perfect. Her children are dressed like a catalogue. Her husband is dressed perfectly. Look in her eyes. What do you see?
The man who stands up tall, speaks with authority, has an air of confidence when everyone has eyes on him. Look at him when he thinks no one is looking. What do you see?
The person in church, at work, in the gym who you see occasionally. Ask them how they are and their answer is always, 'Fine'. Look them in the eye and ask, "Really?" What do you see.
The person you try to reach out to but never answers your e-mail, text, phone call but in person speaks kindly but never mentions the contact attempts. You know they are hurting but do not ever speak of it. When they do speak, it is methodical, planned out, often painful to watch. Look in their eyes. What do you see?
The couple you frequently socialize with. When ordering, who glances at whom when placing orders? Who speaks harshly to the children at the table? Who 'appears' to be in charge of the household? Who dictates where the couple goes? Who they socialize with? The budget for their outings? Look in their eyes. What do you see?
The person with weight issues. A person's weight is often a matter of control. When I was in deep distress I lost a ton of weight. I've known many anorexics. Anorexia is a control issue. Eating disorders - to eat or not to eat - is a control issue. What a person does with his or her own body which is unhealthy is a form of control. I can control what I eat. I can control what I throw up. I can control how much I exercise. I can control pain with cutting, piercing, tattoos.
The person who's house seems immaculate. Even the person who's house is a total shambles. Is it clean because they take pride in their home, or is it something else? Is everything exactly in its place all the time? (I'll bet there is a room that show's what their life is really like.) Is the messy house a collection of junk? Can they never throw anything away?
What do you do in your own life or in the lives of people who meet these qualities?
1) Pray.
2) Read and study your Bible.
3) Talk to them.
4) Talk to someone.
5) Talk to God.
6) SURRENDER.
You are not in control. God is. The only thing you can control is your thought and what comes out of your mouth, and even then, if your heart is not right with God, Satan can take over that, too.
Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Finally. John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Once I gave it all to God, I mean really gave it all - no taking it back when it's convenient or he's not doing it fast enough - my soul found rest. Life isn't perfect, things don't go my way, but I know, I really KNOW that God loves me, has a plan for me, and this world is not my home. Heaven is where I belong, where I will be for eternity. Because I know that now, I can say no, no I don't have it.
God is in Control - Twila Paris
Proverbs 16: 9 A man’s heart plans his way,
But the Lord directs his steps.
A few good books about learning to let go (fiction) available on Amazon
March 12, 2014
School Fundraisers
Does your child's school need to raise money? Have a band trip? Need sports equipment? Do you need to raise money for books or tuition?
Tired of the same old fundraisers? Cookies that taste terrible, flower seeds that don't grow. Tired of popcorn, chocolate and those discount cards you never use?
You NEED to have an Origami Owl fundraiser!!
Have an on-site or on-line Origami Owl Fundraiser event with me and I will donate 50% or more of my profits to your school. Go online and see all the possibilities HERE.
Tired of the same old fundraisers? Cookies that taste terrible, flower seeds that don't grow. Tired of popcorn, chocolate and those discount cards you never use?
You NEED to have an Origami Owl fundraiser!!
Have an on-site or on-line Origami Owl Fundraiser event with me and I will donate 50% or more of my profits to your school. Go online and see all the possibilities HERE.
Hello readers!
Hello everyone. I've been on Goodreads for a while and have just been turned on to the Author Page. I'd like to welcome my fans and followers. I love to hear comments from all of you. My books can be
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